Bodies appeal for fair, peaceful election
Source: Chronicle News Service
Imphal, April 07 2024:
All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO) and Universal Family Party (UPF) have appealed for fair and peaceful conduct of the 18th Lok Sabha Election 2024 in the state.
In a release, AMCO president reverend Simon Raomei conveyed that as Manipur prepares for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections on April 19 and 26, the people of the state find themselves at a critical juncture where the need for an ethical and peaceful electoral process is more pressing than ever.
"In the context of ongoing ethnic tensions and widespread concerns about violence, vote-buying, and other malpractices, this election must uphold the highest standards of fairness and integrity" .
"John Locke's advocacy for governance based on the consent of the governed, as expounded in 'Two Treatises of Government,' resonates profoundly in our context (Locke, 1689) .
The legitimacy of any government, especially in a diverse and multi-ethnic state like Manipur, is contingent upon a fair representation of its people's will, achieved through free and fair elections," it said.
Noting that the Christian perspective offers a compelling moral framework for this process, AMCO mentioned that Romans 13:1 emphasises the importance of lawful and ethical governance, ordained by divine authority.
"This election is not only a political exercise but also a moral test of our ability to create a just and peaceful society, as mandated by Christian teachings" .
"Amid our state's ethnic strife, Jean-Jacques Rousseau's concept of the 'general will' aimed at the common good, as outlined in 'The Social Contract' (Rousseau, 1762), becomes especially relevant.
Our electoral process should mirror these principles, ensuring that the voices of all, particularly the minorities who harbour fears of nationalistic radicalism, are heard and respected," it said.
AMCO continued that Christian community, as an integral part of Manipur's diverse tapestry, prays and advocates for an election that transcends the current climate of fear and hostility.
"In the spirit of Galatians 5:14 - 'For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: Love your neighbour as yourself', we call for an election characterised by mutual respect, understanding and a commitment to the common good," it urged.
AMCO appealed to the election officials, political parties, civil society groups and all voters to join hands in ensuring that the upcoming elections are not marred by violence, coercion, or any form of electoral malpractice.
"In conclusion, as Manipur stands at this pivotal moment, let our actions in these elections be guided by the wisdom of political philosophers like Locke and Rousseau, and the eternal principles of our Christian faith.
Let us all contribute to a fair, peaceful, and ethical election, laying the foundation for a harmonious and prosperous future for our state," it emphasised.
Meanwhile, UPF president Ngasepam Nilakanta Singh called for holding the Lok Sabha election without violence, use of money and muscle power.
He also urged the candidates to desist from distributing money, putting up banners & flags, organising meetings and feasts, along with asking voters not to take any money from them.
UPF also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to resolve the ongoing conflict before the election by organising a meeting of all 60 MLAs at the PMO.